Kauffman Foundation announces winner of 1 in a Million contest
November 15, 2016 | Bobby Burch
Kansas City’s reign atop the national 1 in a Million contest has ended.
The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation announced Wednesday that Anchoraged-based Pandere Shoes won the contest, beating out one local finalist and winning $25,000 in the process. The Grooming Project was the sole Kansas City firm left in the competition, which challenges 1 Million Cups presenters from around the U.S. to compete for a $25,000 prize.
Pandere Shoes was founded by Laura Oden, Celia Crossett and Ayla Rogers.
To compete in 1 in a Million, eligible startups had to submit a 60-second video pitch for the prize. Kansas City-based financial tech startup Blooom took home the first prize last year, earning Kansas City bragging rights in the inaugural contest.
The Grooming Project is a nonprofit that teaches at-risk mothers the trade of dog grooming to provide them with an opportunity for a living wage. Founder Natasha Kirsch started the enterprise because she believes that a living wage does more than provide people with money — she wants to elevate and empower women from situations of poverty, crime or abuse.
For reaching the top five of the competition, the company will receive a $5,000 cash prize. To learn more about the Grooming Project, check out Startland’s feature on the firm.
2016 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
Travois receives $35M in tax credits to boost economic development in Native communities
A fresh tranche of new markets tax credits is expected to help Crossroads-based Travois support the funding of projects in Native spaces, like school facilities and health clinics, said Phil Glynn. “New markets tax credits are an essential tool for filling funding gaps for projects in places with the greatest need,” said Glynn, president of…
Chef Ryan Edwards’ flame rises with new BBQ concept (in a familiar Lenexa space)
A new BBQ hotspot opened this week on Lackman Road, bringing a seasoned restauranteur’s latest concept — and the taste of distinctly Kansas City barbecue — back to his old grilling grounds. Sierra BBQ, a casual dining concept from chef-owner Ryan Edwards, debuted Tuesday in the former Johnson County space occupied by Edwards’ acclaimed Sierra…
Here’s how Kauffman’s five just-hired directors fit into the Foundation’s new impact- and research-heavy focus
A handful of newly announced directors at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation are expected to help drive forward the influential philanthropic organization’s updated priorities and grantmaking strategy, said Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, emphasizing an underlying theme for their work: prosperity for all. “These five new director positions welcome a combination of talent and commitment to our…
Startup newcomer no longer the outsider after capping $30K+ Pure Pitch Rally prize haul
A decade ago, Zik Nwanganga felt like a stranger in Kansas City, he said. Monday’s Pure Pitch Rally gave him a new perspective — surrounded by funders and startup supporters eager to boost his fledgling venture. “I’m just in shock — overwhelmed with joy and grateful for the community coming together,” Nwanganga said after tallying…